A Lesson In Going Well Above Par

Abilis, the Greenwich-based nonprofit

By Beth Cooney Fitzpatrick

Fred Trump with his son William

When Fred and Lisa Trump’s youngest child, William, was born with a severe seizure disorder that caused his profound cerebral palsy, they were understandably overwhelmed. “It rocked our world. We weren’t prepared for anything like this. And who is?” says Fred, a Greenwich resident.

As the Trumps diligently sought help to address William’s complicated needs, they found themselves relying more and more on the staff and expertise of Abilis, the Greenwich-based nonprofit that provides services to children and adults with developmental disabilities.

From the efforts of its physical therapists to special services for preschoolers, Fred says that Abilis “helped us cope with an incredibly difficult situation.”

Even though William, now almost fifteen, no longer receives Abilis support, the Trump family has remained grateful and connected. Which is why, when the longtime host of its annual fundraising golf tournament decided to step aside, Fred volunteered to take over.

This year’s June 9 Golf for Abilis event at the Trump National Golf Club in Briarcliff Manor, New York, will be the third fundraising tournament Fred has hosted.

As for the stunning locale, “I have great connections,” laughs Fred, a nephew of real estate developer (and course owner) Donald Trump.

Fred is gratified that last year’s tournament helped support a variety of vital Abilis programs, including the opening of its eighteenth group community residence; the expansion of its innovative greenhouse-to-table microgreens program; and the funding of thousands of supportive visits to the homes of children with special needs.

“I do this not only because we want to say thank you, but also because I really want to bring attention to the great work they do,” Fred says.

To find out more about the tournament or to participate visit abilis.us/golf.